Liver injuries (1139)

Key points below


ALERT: In an emergency call 911

What is the liver?

The liver is an organ in the upper right part off the abdomen.  It is made up of two main lobes.
The liver helps break down foods and medicines in the blood.  This makes it easier for the body to absorb and use them.GI anatomy

What is a liver injury?

A liver injury could be simple bruises or small tears.  In some cases the liver is torn into many pieces.  This could cause damage to major blood vessels around the liver.

What causes liver injuries?

Most liver injuries are caused by trauma to the upper right part of the abdomen.  The most common causes of these injuries are from motor vehicle crashes, falls and sports injuries.
Liver injuries can be life-threatening.  If you think there has been a liver injury, have your child checked by a health care provider immediately.

What are the symptoms?

How are they diagnosed?

Injury Grade

Description of injury

Nights of bed rest

Weeks of limited activity

1

Small tear or bruise on the surface of the liver

1

3

2

Tear in the liver, less than 3 cm (1”) deep

1

4

3

Deep tear in the liver, greater than 3 cm (1”) deep

2

5

4

Multiple tears or a crush injury

2

6

5

Shattered liver

2

7

How are they treated?

What follow-up care is needed?

Your child will need to be seen in the Surgery Clinic after the weeks of restricted activity is done.  At this time if the signs and symptoms from the liver injury are gone, your child will be able to go back to all activities.
 

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has:

  • A fever of 101.5° F (38.6°) or higher.
  • Nausea or Vomiting.
  • More abdominal pain.
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Special health care needs that were not covered by this information.